Why Med Students Should be Heated Up about Climate Change

ABSTRACT
Future climate change is predicted to have a devastating effect on human health, with attributable morbidity and mortality already
occurring. Climate-sensitive diseases such as malnutrition, diarrhea, vector-borne illnesses, and cardiovascular and respiratory disease
are projected to increase, mainly in populations with an already high disease burden. Ironically, those who are most vulnerable are those
who contribute the least to global greenhouse gas emissions. As health care professionals we can serve a unique role in national and
international climate change policy and reduce emissions by promoting lifestyle choices that co-benefit health.
KEYWORDS: climate change, environmental health, global health, climate-sensitive diseases